Seasickness is a common problem for many people when boating. It occurs when the body’s inner ear, which helps with balance, gets confused by the motion of the boat, causing nausea, dizziness, and discomfort. Although seasickness can make boating unpleasant, there are several effective strategies to prevent and manage it. Here’s how you can deal with seasickness while enjoying your time on the water.

Choose the Right Spot on the Boat

One of the first steps to dealing with seasickness is to position yourself in the part of your Caribbean boat where the motion is less noticeable. The middle of the boat is the most stable part of the boat which also experiences less motion compared to the front or at the back of the boat. Stay in the middle and sit facing forward to match your body's movement with the direction the boat is going. This helps reduce the confusion between what your eyes and your inner ear sense, minimising the likelihood of nausea.

Stay Hydrated and Eat Lightly

What you eat and drink before and during your boat trip plays a significant role in preventing seasickness. Dehydration can exacerbate nausea, so drinking plenty of water throughout the day is essential. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks, as they can dehydrate you and worsen seasickness symptoms.

When it comes to food, eating a heavy, greasy meal before boarding the boat can make seasickness worse. Instead, opt for light, non-greasy snacks and meals, such as crackers, fruits, or plain bread. Eating small portions can help prevent nausea from overwhelming your stomach. Ginger is also known for its anti-nausea properties, so consuming ginger-based snacks, candies, or tea can help reduce seasickness.

Medications and Natural Remedies

Various medications are available to help prevent or relieve seasickness. Over-the-counter options such as Kwells or Travacalm HO are popular choices for many boaters. These antihistamines work by blocking the signals in your brain that trigger nausea. They should be taken about an hour before you get on the boat for maximum effectiveness.

For those who prefer natural remedies, ginger supplements, acupressure wristbands, or aromatherapy with peppermint oil can provide relief. Acupressure bands apply pressure to specific points on your wrist, which can help alleviate nausea.

Focus on the Horizon

One of the most effective ways to prevent seasickness is to focus on a stable point in the distance, such as the horizon. When you focus on the horizon, it helps your brain reconcile the movement it is experiencing with what your eyes see, reducing the feeling of disorientation.

Avoid looking at moving objects, such as the water or the boat itself, as this can worsen the sensation of motion. If you start feeling sick, try to sit still and look straight ahead rather than moving around as excessive movement can trigger nausea.

Fresh Air Can Make You Feel So MUCH Better

If your boat has a confined space like a cabin, it can exacerbate seasickness. Whenever possible, get outside, and breathe fresh air. Stay away from the are where there are fumes from your boat engine.  The cool breeze and the open space can help reduce nausea. If the weather permits, standing on deck and allowing the breeze to hit your face can have a soothing effect, especially if you pair it with focusing on the horizon.

Rest and Relax

Tension and anxiety can heighten the symptoms of seasickness. Try to remain calm and relaxed, even if you start to feel unwell. Some people find lying down and closing their eyes helps, while others find that standing and breathing deeply provides relief. The key is to stay relaxed and avoid excessive movement.